Calor League Division One South & West: Bridgwater Town 1 Yate Town 1

FORMER Yate Town FA Cup hero Tom Knighton denied his old side a much-needed victory at Fairfax Park on Saturday.

Knighton, who scored four goals on the Bluebells’ run to the first round of the most famous cup competition in the world last season, had his first shot blocked but then powerfully struck home from 20 yards to equalise for Bridgwater 14 minutes from time.

The diminutive striker went close to winning the game for the hosts late on when he shot low past goalkeeper Martin Horsell, only for Mitch Harrison to get back and clear off the line, shortly after another former Yate player, Karim Rendell, brought a good save out of Horsell.

Yate had gone in front of a wind-affected game on 14 minutes. Lewis Haldane’s 25-yard free kick was parried by Sam Alexander and captain Mike Bryant followed up to fire the ball into the net.

The dangerous James Harmer had a great chance to double their advantage following a defensive mix-up but he shot over the bar.

Bridgwater improved after the break and Rendell drove just wide before they went on to earn a share of the spoils.

The draw left Yate six points adrift of the play-offs, having played two games more than fifth-placed Paulton Rovers.

Rob Cousins’ side have six fixtures remaining, starting with a trip to strugglers Bishop’s Cleeve on Tuesday night (7.45pm).